Injured soldiers given Star Wars lessons

The force was with injured servicemen at the UK’s leading military rehabilitation centre when they were visited by the stunt expert who worked on the Star Wars films.

Patients at Headley Court, near Epsom, were given lessons in how to use light sabres when they were visited by the stunt coordinator who worked on the six-film saga plus some of the storm troopers from UK Garrison - the world's largest Star Wars costuming club.

The organisation presented the centre’s MediCinema, a £410,000 state-of-the-art cinema which was launched last October thanks to funds raised by The Royal British Legion, with a £2,500 cheque.

The event ended with a 3D showing of Star Wars: The Phantom Menace, which was donated by 20th Century Fox.

Captain Barlow said: "I was fully excited when I found out about the event, and it cheered me up as it took me back to my childhood, putting a huge smile on my face.

"Physically, we worked on coordination - agility, accuracy and balance. Mentally, it was very therapeutic."

Captain Holligan added: "It was a great way to interact with the patients, much closer to normal regimental life."